Saudi Arabia 4 Day Itinerary
Saudi Arabia 4-Day Itinerary: A Captivating Journey
Day 1: Exploring Riyadh
Morning: Start your day with a visit to Al Murabba District, home to the spectacular Al Faisaliah Center, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. Don’t forget to explore the nearby King Abdulaziz Public Library, a beautiful architectural marvel.
Afternoon: Head to Ad Diriyah, the historic district of Riyadh, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the At-Turaif District and visit the Salwa Al Sudairi House Museum and the nearby National Museum of Saudi Arabia.
Evening: Explore the vibrant King Fahd Road for some shopping and dinner at one of the many international restaurants. Remember to respect local customs, especially during Ramadan when eating, drinking, and smoking in public are prohibited from dawn to dusk.
Things to Know: Riyadh is a modern city with a rich history. Be sure to wear modest clothing, including covering your arms and legs, and ensure that women are accompanied by a male guardian or have a proper iqama (residence permit).
Visa Requirements: Tourists from most countries need a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. You can apply for an e-visa online in advance or obtain one upon arrival at the airport. Check the latest requirements on the Saudi Arabian embassy website.
Transportation: Taxis are readily available and affordable. Consider downloading apps like Careem or Uber for a more convenient experience.
Day 2: Cultural Immersion in Jeddah
Morning: Travel to Jeddah, the commercial capital of Saudi Arabia. Visit the Floating Mosque, an iconic architectural marvel sitting on top of the Red Sea.
Afternoon: Explore the Old Town (Al Balad) and its historic Al-Nasseem District, where you can find the colorful houses of Masmak and the bustling Al-Hamra Souq. Don’t miss the beautiful Koran Museum located within the Al-Duwali House.
Evening: Stroll along Corniche Road, enjoying the sunset over the Red Sea. Dinner options range from street food to high-end restaurants offering local and international cuisine.
Day 3: Adventure in Taif
Morning: Travel to Taif, a city nestled among the mountains of the Hejaz region. Visit the charming Rose Garden, home to over 400 varieties of roses.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque old town and explore the Taif National Park, offering stunning views of the valley below.
Evening: Drive up to Al-Haramain Mountain, the highest peak in the Hejaz region, for breathtaking sunset views. Dinner can be enjoyed at one of the many local restaurants.
Day 4: Historical Journey in Madinah
Morning: Travel to Madinah, home to the second holiest site in Islam—the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi). Spend time exploring this stunning mosque and its serene atmosphere.
Afternoon: Visit the Mount Uhud, where a significant battle took place between Muslims and pagan Meccans during the life of the Prophet Muhammad. Nearby, you can also visit the Cave of Thawr, where the Prophet sought refuge during the Battle of Uhud.
Evening: Stroll through the historic Al-Masjid Street, known for its old houses, souqs, and mosques. Dinner options range from local cuisine to international fare catering to tourists.
Things to Remember: Be respectful of religious sensitivities during your visit, especially when visiting holy sites like the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. Dress modestly and remove shoes where appropriate.
Transportation: Buses and taxis are available for travel between cities, but consider renting a car to explore at your own pace. Be aware that driving rules may differ from what you’re used to, so drive carefully!